Calgary Wild FC announced the signing of Philippines international midfielder Jacyln Sawicki Tuesday.
The British Columbia native is the new women’s professional soccer club’s fifth signing joining Farkhunda Muhtaj, Meikayla Moore, Sarah Keilty-Dilling and Grace Stordy.
“I feel extremely grateful to have the opportunity to represent the Calgary Wild in the inaugural season of the Northern Super League,” said Sawicki in a club statement Sunday. “It means the world to me to be a part of this history as a female footballer.”
Calgary Wild FC’s new midfielder with World Cup experience
Sawicki joins Calgary after two season playing for Western United in the A-League in Australia. She made 29 appearances for the Melbourne-based club, scoring one goal. She has also played in Sweden and Japan.
“People always want to feel valued in their workplace, and for me, that was something that I felt right away during the first conversations I had with the Calgary Wild,” said Sawicki. “The club has placed a strong emphasis on female empowerment which was something really refreshing as a female athlete who grew up in a generation without a lot of female role models.”
Sawicki plays internationally for the Philippines, who she qualifies for through her mother. The 31-year-old midfielder featured in all three of the Philippines’ matches at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.
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“My mom was never an athlete, but she taught me the true meaning of work ethic and humility,” said Sawicki. “Growing up, I watched her face and overcome adversity while continuing to be the selfless and generous human being that she is.
“I try to bring those characteristics and qualities that I see in her to my day-to-day as a professional athlete, and only hope to grow into half the person she is.”
Calgary Wild FC building a ‘family’
Calgary Wild FC are yet to name a head coach. But the club’s sporting director believes Sawicki will contribute to the developing club culture they are building ahead of their first season in 2025.
“Building a professional sports team is similar to that of a supportive family that includes a group of people who trusts and challenges each other – all who are driven to work hard together in pursuit of a common goal,” said Alix Bruch, sporting director of Calgary Wild FC. “Family has always been at the heart of Jaclyn’s journey in soccer. The Calgary Wild have added a critical member to our growing family by adding Jaclyn Sawicki to our roster. She brings a wealth of international experience to the table, and we are excited she chose to join our club for this historic journey.”
The Northern Super League is Canada’s first professional women’s soccer league. The NSL is set to kick off in spring of 2025 and currently has six clubs named for its inaugural season.